Bad noise from front steering wheel when turning

Hi I have a 1994 Chev Camaro 3.4 V6 and it has begun to make an awful noise when turning sharply. It makes sort of a metal on metal noise- but not a grinding noise, but a popping noise sort. Sounds like metal rubbing against metal.

I'm thinking it's either the ball joints or ball bearings? Wondering how serious this is too- worried my wheel my fly off while I'm driving or something.

Going to try to leave work early today to get a local garage to take the wheel off and just look at it for me. But any thoughts/suggestions from you guys would be great!!!

Thanks!!
Cindy